As the sun rose over Augusta National on April 9, 2025, excitement filled the air as Paulina Gretzky took to the course to caddie for her husband, Dustin Johnson, during the Masters Par 3 Contest. The couple was seen strolling hand in hand, accompanied by their young son, embodying the spirit of family and support that has characterized their relationship through the ups and downs of Johnson's career.
Gretzky has been a steadfast presence in Johnson's life, celebrating his triumphs and standing by him during challenging times. When Johnson clinched the coveted green jacket at the Masters in 2020, it was Gretzky who was right there at Augusta National, cheering him on. Her unwavering support continued when Johnson made the controversial decision to leave the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. Despite the scrutiny he faced, Gretzky remained an ardent supporter, showcasing their strong partnership.
Since joining LIV Golf, Johnson has found success, racking up three wins on the tour. However, as he prepares for his 15th Masters start, his odds to win are not in his favor, sitting at a lengthy +8000. Johnson, who will tee off at 12:11 p.m. ET, is currently tied for 27th in the LIV Golf standings this season. His best finish came in Singapore, where he tied for fifth, while he finished tied for 27th last week in Miami.
Last year, Johnson missed the cut at the Masters, and this year he finished tied for 48th, making his return to Augusta a crucial moment in his career. The 2020 Masters victory remains his last major win, and the pressure to reclaim that form is palpable.
As the Masters unfolds, Johnson's presence is not just about his performance on the course; it also signifies a potential shift in the relationship between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. After nearly two years of division, Johnson has started to show signs of bridge-building. Speaking to Today’s Golfer, he expressed a desire for reconciliation, stating, "I’d love to see the LIV guys back with the PGA Tour guys." This sentiment resonates deeply within the golf community as whispers of a possible merger circulate.
During a nine-hole practice round ahead of the Masters, Johnson was paired with PGA Tour pro Michael Kim. In a surprising turn of events, he took on a mentorship role, sharing strategic tips and insights with Kim throughout their round. This friendly exchange was a welcome sight, demonstrating Johnson's willingness to bridge the gap between the two tours. Kim later praised Johnson's calm demeanor and insightful guidance, highlighting his impressive shot-making skills.
Johnson’s practice round also featured golf legend Phil Mickelson and rising star Noah Kent, creating a dynamic atmosphere filled with camaraderie and competition. Mickelson, known for his theatrical style, provided wisdom to Kim, emphasizing the importance of memory over reading putts at Augusta. "You don’t read putts at Augusta, you remember them," Mickelson advised, a lesson Kim took to heart.
As the Par 3 Contest continued, Kim participated with his father on the bag, marking a full-circle moment for the young golfer who had missed this tradition in 2019. This year, he felt a sense of belonging, buoyed by the support of established players like Johnson and Mickelson.
Meanwhile, another story is unfolding at Augusta: the emergence of Akshay Bhatia. Fresh off his win at the Valero Texas Open, the 22-year-old is brimming with confidence and ready to compete against the best in the sport. He openly expressed his admiration for Tiger Woods and the significance of being part of golf's biggest stage. Bhatia acknowledged Mickelson's early support in his career, showcasing the mentorship dynamic that thrives within the sport.
With Johnson's quiet leadership and the rise of young talents like Bhatia, the 2025 Masters is shaping up to be more than just a tournament; it feels like a turning point for the sport. The blend of seasoned experience and youthful exuberance is creating an electric atmosphere at Augusta.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Dustin Johnson, not only for his performance but also for the potential impact he could have on the future of golf. Will he reclaim his former glory, or will the changing dynamics of the sport redefine his legacy? The Masters is always a stage for drama, and this year promises to deliver a captivating narrative.
As fans gather to witness the action at Augusta, the stories of resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence will unfold, reminding everyone why golf remains one of the most beloved sports in the world. With Paulina Gretzky by his side, Johnson is not just playing for himself but for the future of golf as well.
